A NEW RENDITION. On Nov. 26, the recurring “Stage Fright” production returns for its 12th edition for a one-night rendition of the 1978 film, “The Last Waltz.” The event invites Chippewa Valley musicians to portray notable musicians who contributed to “The Band’s” final documented performance in the 1970s.

After more than a decade of showcases across the Chippewa Valley — taking place in venues like the former House of Rock on Water Street, to The Plus and Stones Throw on Barstow street — “Stage Fright” will make a triumphant return for its 12th edition on Nov. 26, delivering a one-night rendition of the 1978 film, “The Last Waltz.”

This year, the performance will expand to the RCU Theater at the Pablo Center at the Confluence (128 Graham Ave., Eau Claire) after a sold-out run of the show in 2024 at the Pablo’s JAMF Theater proved more attendance space was necessary.

Over the years, the production has invited Chippewa Valley musicians — emerging artists to local staples alike — to portray notable musicians who contributed to “The Band’s” final documented performance on Thanksgiving night in the 1970s.

Billy Angell, an organizer of the annual performance — and keyboardist in Eau Claire’s “Rhythm Posse” — said his ensemble remains one of the few returning elements in this cinema-enactment of Stage Fright.

Considering Stage Fright's unchanged retelling of  “The Last Waltz,” Angell believes this year's new cast of area artists will animate the characters with fresh interpretations and depth. With both a new — and larger — stage and rehearsals leading up to the Nov. 26 show, there’s excitement in the air, he added.

“It’s been a long time since I have played a stage that big and I know it’s the first time for a lot of people that are in this show,” Angell said. “There’s a lot of excitement amongst the cast for the (new venue).”

Billy Angell, pictured above, will reprise their role as Garth Hudson from “The Last Waltz” and play the keyboard within the Rhythm Posse ensemble.

While the goal to bring fresh musical talent to the showcase each year persists, Angell hinted that a selection of musicians who were “fan favorites” from previous Stage Fright performances will return for the 12th rendition.

Chippewa Vallians may recognize Soren Staff (Them Coulee Boys) portraying the role of Neil Young, or Noel Hanson (The Jaggernauts) returning to play the role of Ronnie Hawkins. This year, fan favorites from Uncommon Denominator, Chase Bucheger and Emily Watkins, will also join the local lineup to embody the roles of Van Morrison and Eric Clapton, respectively.

“Every single person throws a little bit of themselves into (the performance) and we encourage that,” Angell said. “For the people who saw the show last year, it is the same, but there's these little nuggets of ‘oh, that’s different.’ ”

As is true of Stage Fright’s past, Angell said all proceeds from the one-night ticket sales will be donated back to the Chippewa Valley community. The Bolton Refuge House (807 S Farwell St., Eau Claire) has been selected as this year’s recipient of donations. The organization provides resources and services for individuals impacted by domestic violence, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and more.

To purchase tickets to “Stage Fright” 12 on Nov. 26 at the Pablo Center at the Confluence ($27.40/person) visit pablocenter.org or in-person at the box office in downtown Eau Claire. Visit the Rhythm Posse and Stage Fright Facebook page for ongoing updates and announcements (@RPStagefright).